SF Express deploys own 747 freighter service to East Midlands Airport

China-based logistics firm SF Express has operated its own aircraft into East Midlands Airport for the first time, marking a shift in its operations at the UK cargo hub.

The company flew a Boeing 747 freighter from Ezhou Huahu International Airport on March 8, according to a statement from East Midlands Airport. The flight represents the first time the carrier has brought cargo to the airport using its own aircraft rather than through charter capacity or space on other operators.

SF Express is one of eight cargo carriers that launched new operations through East Midlands Airport during the past year. The integrator previously served the airport through charter arrangements and capacity agreements with other airlines.

The deployment of its own aircraft indicates a move toward a longer-term presence at the UK facility. The flight originated from Ezhou Huahu International Airport, which was developed by SF Express with the Hubei province as a logistics hub for China and is positioned as the country’s first cargo-focused airport.

SF Express is one of the largest integrated logistics service providers in China and Asia and ranks among the largest globally. Its move to operate its own aircraft into East Midlands adds activity at the airport, which markets itself as the United Kingdom’s largest dedicated freight airport.

The airport says its location in central England allows cargo operators to reach most of the UK population within four hours by road. The hub serves integrators, cargo airlines and logistics companies moving time-sensitive shipments across domestic and international supply chains.

East Midlands Airport also reported cargo growth in 2025, with volumes rising 12 per cent year on year. The airport said the increase accounted for more than a third of total air cargo growth recorded across the United Kingdom during the year.

The growth trend at the airport has coincided with a change in fleet patterns. According to the airport, there has been a shift away from smaller aircraft operating short routes within Europe toward larger aircraft deployed on long-haul sectors. As a result, freight aircraft movements at East Midlands Airport have declined by 7 per cent during the current financial year despite higher cargo volumes.

East Midlands Airport Commercial Director Adam Andrews said the development reflects the long-standing relationship between the airport and the logistics company.

“SF Express has been a valued long-term partner for East Midlands Airport, and our central UK location makes us a natural hub for connecting global supply chains quickly and efficiently across the country.

“We’re delighted to welcome SF Express’s own 747 to East Midlands as a major milestone and a clear signal of their long-term commitment to the UK’s largest dedicated freight airport.”